Dolphins CB Xavien Howard treating third preseason game like any other week

The third preseason game is universally known as the dress rehearsal to the regular season for most teams, but don’t tell Dolphins cornerback Xavien Howard that.

After practice on Tuesday, Howard told reporters, he is treating Saturday night’s game against the Ravens like any other game.

“I treat every game exactly the same,” Howard said. “It doesn’t matter which game, preseason or a little scrimmage we’re having. It doesn’t matter. I’ve got to take advantage of it when I’m on the field.”

In the third preseason game, starters tend to play longer than the first two preseason games. This will give Dolphins starters such as Howard more of an opportunity to get a feel of what the action will be like once the regular season begins.

Last December was a turning point for Howard as he recorded four interceptions in back-to-back games against the Broncos and Patriots. During last Friday’s game against the Panthers, Howard registered another interception as he has five in the Dolphins previous seven games.

During training camp and the preseason, Howard has elevated his game to another level as he has been consistently blanketing receivers.

“I’m just taking advantage of an opportunity that a coach gives us and just being in the right position at the right time. Really (I’m) just going out there and balling and being comfortable.”

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